Satisfy your comfort food cravings with this indulgent Easy Au Gratin Potatoes recipe. Layers of tender potatoes smothered in a rich and creamy cheese sauce make this dish a favorite among both kids and adults. The gratin is baked to golden perfection, resulting in a dish that is both visually stunning and incredibly delicious. Whether served as a side dish or the main event, these au gratin potatoes are sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Peel and thinly slice the potatoes.
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the flour and cook for another minute until well combined.
- Gradually whisk in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 3/4 cup of cheddar cheese and 3/4 cup of Gruyere cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
- Layer half of the sliced potatoes in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the potatoes.
- Repeat with the remaining potatoes and cheese sauce.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and Gruyere cheeses on top. Sprinkle with paprika for added flavor and visual appeal.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 40 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.
Interesting Facts
Au Gratin is a French cooking term that refers to a dish that is topped with breadcrumbs, cheese, or both, and then browned in the oven.
The secret to achieving a creamy and velvety cheese sauce for au gratin potatoes is to gradually whisk in the liquid (heavy cream and chicken broth) and cook it until thickened.